Humira

Humira, generically known as Adalimumab, is intended for the treatment of these following problems related to the joints: arthritis psoriatica, Bechterew syndrome, chronic psoriasis, Crohns illness, juvenile idiopathic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This medication works by lessening the pain in the affected area, as well as skin edema caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

Humira is distributed and manufactured by Abbott Laboratories. The drug brand Humira is the abbreviated version of Human Monoclonal Antibody in Rheumatoid Arthritis. It prevents the joint from damage and also suppresses the tumor necrosis factor from causing skin edema. This medication is very effective for the treatment of different problems with connection to arthritis.

Unlike other conventional treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, Humira is also proven to lessen the risk of acquiring Crohn’s disease among adults.

Things To Consider Before Taking Humira

This medication should not be taken when the patient has an existing medical problem, or is currently under medication of other drugs. However, the doctor may consider Humira treatment, if there are no alternative remedies available for the patient.

Patients should inform their attending physician about a their detailed medical, drug and allergy history. Those with history of brain disorder, any types of cancer, and other problems like allergies should inform their doctors as well. This will help the physicians assess whether Humira is suitable for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. These details will also help the physician prescribe the right dose and schedule for the patient.

Humira is known to have negative interactions with certain medications. Patients under the treatment of Humira should avoid drugs with TNF blockers, live vaccines and Anakinra. When mixed with Humira, these drugs will cause allergic reactions and even infections which could be life threatening. Another drug to avoid is Methotrexate- although it does not pose any serious threat, it is known to reduce the efficiency of Humira by approximately 49%. Thus, it is highly recommended for patients to inform their doctor any current medications prior to taking Humira.

For those taking Humira intravenously, make sure to sterilize the syringes thoroughly for maximum safety and hygiene .Strictly follow the package instructions, as well as the doctor’s advise.

Dosage And Administration

Humira is available at 20 mg and 40 mg in tablets and 0.8 ml syringes. Patients could choose to take it orally or intravenously for quick effect and for the medicine to be absorbed without having to be destroyed when it gets to the digestive system.

Doctors will assess the right dose and schedule for each patients through the assessment of their medical, drug and allergy history. Some patients might be given a 40 mg tablet every other week.

Patients should strictly follow their prescribed dose. Although there are no detailed information about Humira overdose, it is common that too much of everything is bad for the health. The likelihood of experiencing the side effects will also increase.

Side Effects And Drug Interactions

Most commonly, patients under the treatment of this medication may experience any of these side effects: skin rashes, upset stomach nausea or vomiting, and cephalalgias. For those taking the medication intravenously, these signs might show up: skin edema, redness, itching and slight pain.

Humira belongs to the group of medication which also work by suppressing the immune system. Thus, patients taking Humira might experience some infections such as sinusitis, urinary tract infections, and worst, tuberculosis. Those who are about to take Humira are highly advised to undergo a test for tuberculosis. If diagnosed with one, the patient should delay treatment of Humira until the tuberculosis is completely cured.

Patients under the treatment with Humira has less capacity to get themselves protected from sickness and infections. Some of the serious side effects that may be experienced by the patient are: mood swings, jaundice, seizures, irregular heartbeat, and skin edema in the leg area.

Whether the side effects be less serious or severe, patients should notify their doctors immediately. If left untreated, some of these side effects might lead to a more serious problem.

Other Details

Humira has the molecular formula C6428H9912N1694O1987S46 and the IUPAC name Humanized anti-TNF antibody (D2E7). Its molecular weight is 144190.3 g/mol.